Just in case medicines
A doctor or specialist nurse may prescribe just in case medicines for someone who is ill. These are prescribed in case the person develops symptoms in the future, so they can be given quickly. Here, we talk about what just in case medicines are, how they should be stored, and what to do if the person you look after needs more medicine.
On this page:
What are just in case medicines?
Just in case medicines are medicines that can be given quickly if someone has sudden distressing symptoms such as pain or agitation. They're also used if someone suddenly cannot take their medicines by mouth (orally) anymore.
A doctor or specialist nurse can prescribe just in case medicines for people who are ill and living at home or in a care home. Just in case medicines are also called anticipatory medicines or end of life medicines.
They are given as injections and supplied with equipment like needles and syringes.
They're usually given by a district nurse who can be called out to the house if the person becomes unwell.
What they're used for
Just in case medicines are used for different symptoms, including:
- feeling and being sick (nausea and vomiting)
- breathlessness
- agitation or restlessness
- pain
- noisy breathing.
Some people have these symptoms in their last weeks and days of life but not everyone does. Just in case medicines are prescribed in case someone develops these symptoms. It means they can access the medicines as soon as they need them.
Read more about to expect in last weeks and days of someone's life.
How they're given
A doctor or specialist nurse will prescribe the medicines before the person needs them. That means the person will be able to have them more quickly if they do need them.
If the person you look after develops distressing symptoms, call their GP, specialist nurse or district nurse. In most cases, they'll come to the house and give them the medicines. If they cannot visit, they'll tell you if you need to do anything.
You may be asked to give the person their medicine if you're able. The doctor or nurse will guide you through this. Tell them if you do not feel able to do this.
Side effects
All medicines have side effects. Some common just in case medicines can make people feel drowsy. If you're worried about side effects, speak to the person's doctor or nurse.
How to get more just in case medicines
The GP will usually prescribe enough medicines to last a few days. If the person needs them for longer, the GP or specialist nurse will usually review the person within a couple of days and prescribe more if needed.
If the person you care for needs more medicines, you'll usually need to get a prescription from their GP and get the medicines from the pharmacy.
Not all pharmacies stock just in case medicines. It's useful to find out which pharmacies in your area stock them, to save time when you get the prescription. Ask the GP or district nurse which pharmacies stock them in your area.
If your pharmacy does not have the person's medication they can order it. This might take a bit longer.
Getting medication if you cannot leave your home
You might not be able to go to the pharmacy if you're not well.
Whatever your situation, you can still get the medication you need. You might have a family member, friend, neighbour or community volunteer who can help. The pharmacy might also be able to deliver your medication.
Where to keep just in case medicines
The person you look after will be given medicines, as well as the equipment needed to administer them, like syringes or needles. These can be stored together in a 'just in case box'.
It's important to store medicines safely:
- Keep them out of the reach or sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
- Some medicines need to be stored in the fridge – you'll be told if this is the case.
- Ask a pharmacist if you're unsure about anything.
About this information
This information is not intended to replace any advice from health or social care professionals. We suggest that you consult with a qualified professional about your individual circumstances. Read more about how our information is created and how it's used.
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